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The Ultimate Guide on When to Use Express Pass at Universal Orlando

by Leap on February 21, 2024 5692 Orlando

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Thrills! Action! Transformers! Butterbeer! We always look forward to hopping down to Universal Orlando Resort. Between Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay, we have plenty of places to play. One of the ways we experience more and wait in line less is with the Universal Express Pass. Universal's skip-the-line access is a big help in the parks, especially on crowded days. But it isn't free — unless you stay on-site at select Universal hotels. Understanding how and when to use the Express Pass at Universal Orlando is your key to a great visit. This post explains everything you need to know! And in some hopping good news ... we frogs are selling Universal Express Passes at a discount!

Express Pass Universal - Pass Front

What Is Universal Express Pass?

Express Pass Universal - Infographic

Universal Express allows you to skip the lines at most Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure attractions and access priority seating at shows. (It is a separate purchase to include Universal Volcano Bay.)

Express Pass Universal - Gringotts

Universal offers Universal Express Passes for most of the popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter rides, including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. The only rides that do not have Express access in either park are Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Pteranodon Flyers at Universal Islands of Adventure.

For a quick and easy visual breakdown of Universal's Express pass, download our infographic, which is filled with need-to-know info and a list of attractions included with Express for easy referencing on the go.

How Express Pass Works at Universal Orlando

Express Pass Universal Orlando - Scanning Express Pass at Ride Entrance

When you approach a ride with Universal Express, show your pass to the attendant. Some rides (mainly those with short, outdoor queues), such as Flight of the Hippogriff, will scan the pass right then and there as you arrive at the ride entrance.

For popular rides with more elaborate and longer queues, a team member will check the pass and let you enter the Express queue. Then, closer to the ride loading area (this distance varies by ride), a second team member will scan your pass, so hold on to your pass and keep it ready. Some Universal Express queues will eventually merge with a ride's standby queue, such as Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast. On the flip side, other Express queues are entirely separated from a ride's standby queue, such as Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

Know that the Universal Express Pass is not a group pass. Everyone in your party will need their own Universal Express Pass. Also, the passes are non-transferable. If you're staying at a Universal hotel that offers the free Express Pass benefit, your hotel room key will act as the pass. Each person will have a personalized hotel key.

It's also important to note that for rides with metal detectors, such as The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Jurassic World VelociCoaster, all of your belongings must be stowed away in a locker except for your Express Pass (which you'll need to get into the corresponding line). Make sure at least one frog in your party has pockets or a place on their clothing to store your passes. Lanyards with pouches can go through the metal detectors but must be tucked into your shirt prior to boarding the ride vehicle.

Universal Orlando Single Rider Lines

Express Pass Universal - The Hulk

Single Rider lines can sometimes be even faster than Universal Express Pass lines. If you don't mind splitting up your party on the ride, you can experience some of the most popular rides much more quickly. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey's Single Rider line, in particular, is the best for saving time and is often faster than the Express queue. (It's also easy to miss. Keep your eyes up as soon as you enter the castle to spot the Single Rider sign. It's going to direct you to a staircase on your left.) The Single Rider lines go straight to the loading area, though the exact speed can depend on the flow of odd-numbered groups. You and your party will be together in the queue, but you will split up on the ride as you fill an empty seat. It is important to note that Single Rider lines may not always be open. They periodically open and close depending on how filled to capacity the queue is.

Express Pass Universal - Spider-Man

Single Rider Lines at Universal Islands of Adventure:

Express Pass Universal - Men in Black

Single Rider Lines at Universal Studios Florida:

Keep in mind that some Universal Express and most Single Rider lines skip major portions of the queue. We get that the point of this whole thing is to spend less time waiting. However, some of the queues are spectacular and help set up the ride's storyline. For example, if it's your first time on Skull Island: Reign of Kong or Revenge of the Mummy, we recommend experiencing the regular queue (the Express lines skip major parts). If you've been there, done that, take the route that's best for you.

If you're a Harry Potter fan, good news. The Express queue for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey misses the outdoor greenhouse and smaller details inside. But the major parts of the castle, such as Dumbledore's Office and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, are not toadally out of view. For Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, the Express queue is essentially the same as the standby line, only moving faster. Both Single Rider lines still don't get the full experience as standby, however.

Universal Express Pass Options

Express Pass Universal - Pass Back

There are two types of Universal Express Passes:

You can use the Universal Express Unlimited Pass an unlimited number of times at participating rides and attractions each day that your pass is valid. You can use the Universal Express Standard Pass one time per ride each day that your pass is valid.

While it is slightly more costly, the Unlimited option can be invaluable depending on your needs and priorities. We recommend opting for Unlimited if you:

Express Pass Universal - Hogwarts Express

  • Want to ride the Hogwarts Express both ways more than once instead of wasting time and energy walking from park to park
  • Struggle with screen rides and/or have a history of motion sickness so you can get on the rides you better tolerate as many times as you want
  • Are not particularly into roller coasters and want to re-ride attractions you love over and over again
  • Have tadpoles attached to specific Express Pass accepting rides to avoid potential future meltdowns
  • Have tadpoles at an awkward height so they can enjoy the rides they can get on more than once
  • Are visiting with a large group since it gives you the flexibility to split up and ride more or less of your favorite rides

Additionally, Florida is notorious for its thunderstorms — especially in the summer. Many outdoor Express Pass accepting rides will close if there's thunder or lightning in the area. If you went with Standard Express and didn't hold onto your one-time ride on an indoor attraction, you'll have to wait in the longer standby queue when the rain hits at rides you already utilized Express on. Opting for Unlimited allows you to re-ride to your heart's content!

On the flip side, we'd recommend Standard Passes if you:

  • Want to hit all of the attractions
  • Are limited on the time you can spend at the park(s) — for instance, if you are arriving later in the day or need to leave early
  • Want to save some money and are not staying at a premier hotel

Both types of Universal Express Passes are available for one park per day or both parks per day. It can be purchased online ahead of time through us or Universal directly, or while you're at the parks. We like this flexibility. Sometimes you don't know you want an Express Pass until you're already in the parks!

Universal offers separate passes for Universal Volcano Bay. These are per day, and you have the option of skipping the virtual lines at select rides and attractions, or you can pay more with an Express Plus Pass to skip the virtual lines at all rides and attractions inside the water park.

How Much Is Universal Express Pass?

Express Pass Universal - In-Park Kiosk

Ultimately, it depends.

If you are staying on-site at one of Universal's premier resort hotels, Universal Express Unlimited is included with your stay for every day of your visit. That includes your date of check-in and departure. The value of this cannot be underestimated, especially during busier times. Yes, hotels are priced based on expected crowds, but if you are already considering purchasing Express Passes, you should do the math and see if it makes sense to stay on-site. For larger groups of three or more, it is often still cheaper to stay on-site with Unlimited Express versus staying off-site and purchasing Unlimited Express separately. You get the added benefit of being so close to the parks when you stay on-site, plus access to all of the fabulous pools, plush rooms and other on-site amenities. If you are staying at a premier resort hotel and are planning on hitting the parks on your arrival day, no worries! The front desk can help you get your Express Pass so you're ready to roll, while the Bell Desk safely stores your luggage.

Hotels with Universal Express Unlimited:

Universal Premier Hotels

Universal Cabana Bay Beach ResortLoews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal Aventura Resort and Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites do not offer Universal Express Unlimited, but they do offer Early Park Admission to select rides inside Universal Volcano Bay water park and Universal Islands of Adventure and/or Universal Studios Florida. Keep in mind that you still need regular admission to enter the park.

If you are not staying on-site and wish to purchase Universal Express Passes, the cost varies by day and expected crowds. So during peak times, prices will be higher. Keep in mind that Universal Express Passes could sell out, but this is likely only during the very busiest times. Universal Express is separate from regular admission. It doesn't matter which tickets you have purchased ... you can add on Universal Express as needed. If you aren't sure you will need or want the passes, we recommend you hold off purchasing until you arrive (though it will cost you more, as the price tends to increase as the date gets closer, leading up to the day of). Note that Universal Express is date-specific, so you will need to know what days you plan to be in the parks if you plan to buy the passes ahead of your visit. If traveling during a peak time, there is also the possibility that Express Passes could sell out.

When to Use Express Passes at Universal Orlando

Express Pass Universal Orlando - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Express Queue

Finally, we get to the most important part of the post — when to use Universal Express. Our recommendations are fairly simple.

Anytime It's Free

OK, it's never really FREE, free, but if you are staying on-site at a premier hotel, you don't need to purchase separately. Even if the parks aren't super crowded, you will still save time by using Universal Express Passes. And there is nothing better than skipping the regular line! If you're a regular, the Premier Passholder level grants you unlimited Universal Express access after 4 p.m.

When the Parks Are Expected to Be Super Busy

When our Crowd Calendar predicts crowds of 8, 9 or 10, these are prime times to consider Express Passes. You might even consider it on 7 if you are particularly crowd-averse. If you're visiting during the peak of summer or around the major holidays (especially the week between Christmas and New Year), you should give this serious consideration.

If You Only Have a Day and Want to See as Much as Possible

Do you have a short trip (or only a day for Universal) and want to experience one or especially both parks? Then Universal Express Passes are a good idea. If you are going during one of those super busy days, the pass is a must to get the most done during your time.

Is the Universal Express Pass Worth It?

Express Pass Universal - Transformers

No matter when you visit, having Universal Express will be a time-saver — how much time can depend on the ride and certain situations. If you do purchase an Express Pass, avoid using it (especially if you have the standard, one-time-use pass) immediately after a ride reopens if it's been down. Many people will then get in line and inflate the wait time for both standby, Express and even Single Rider queues. Just come back to the ride later in the day.

On a recent visit, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure was delayed during Early Park Admission, causing the Single Rider line to drastically back up throughout most of the morning. We got in the Single Rider line at 11:45 a.m. and didn't get off the ride until 1 p.m. That being said, the wait was less than the posted standby which read 100 minutes. However, the standby line was significantly shorter later in the day just minutes before park closing as we waited less than an hour. (Don't count on your last ride being at night, though, in case the coaster closes due to weather and doesn't reopen.)

On that same visit, though, we found Express to be incredibly beneficial. We entered the Express line for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey when standby said it was a 95-minute wait. We ended up getting on and off with Express in just 10 minutes! The same hoppened at Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl — it was a 45-minute standby wait, and we hopped on and off with Express within 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, for the Hogwarts Express in Hogsmeade, we waited about 10 minutes in the Express Pass queue, when standby said 15 minutes. Also with the Express Pass, we waited 35 minutes for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem when standby said 50 minutes. Even though these ones moved a bit slower, it's still time saved!

The big question is really how much you value the time you save. During less busy times, we think it's nice to have, but not a must-have. You may feel differently. It's all about what you value!

Are There Other Ways to Save Time in the Parks?

If you don't want to spring for Express Passes, or they are just out of the budget, do not fret! There are still great ways to save time in the parks. If you follow us frogs often, you probably know these by heart.

Buy Your Tickets in Advance

You do not want to waste any of your precious time standing in line to buy tickets at the gate to start off your day. Plus you will save more money if you buy in advance.

Arrive at the Parks Ahead of the Official Opening Time

Universal Express - Twirl and Hurl Simpsons

The gates often open even before their official opening time, so you can get a hop on your day. This is the least busy the parks will be all day, so it is the best time to visit the most popular rides such as Jurassic World VelociCoaster. If you are staying on-site at one of Universal's hotels, take advantage of Early Park Admission to the parks, especially Universal Volcano Bay. While it may just be an extra hour, we've been able to hop to three different roller coasters before the park officially opens using this epic benefit!

Follow a Park Plan

We have several park plans for Universal that were created with families in mind. You can see them here or via our app (you can also tailor one of our preset plans to your own needs using the app).

Use the Single Rider Lines

As mentioned above, the Single Riders line is often even faster than Universal Express. As long as you're fine with splitting up the group, Single Rider lines can be major time-savers.

Whew! We've covered a lot of ground here. Have questions about the Universal Express Pass that we haven't answered? Share them in the comments below! 

Related: Top Tips to Maximize Your Time at Universal Orlando Resort

Keep hopping!

Keep hopping, Leap!
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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:36 p.m. SPDill Says...

Express passes are totally worth it

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:36 p.m. Lynn Says...

Great tips, can't wait to go!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:36 p.m. Mary Says...

Great information. Saving this for future plans.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:35 p.m. monicak Says...

Haven’t had to use the Expresspass, always visit in low season. But really good to know the info.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:35 p.m. Robert L. Says...

From someone who has more experience with WDW, this is good info!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:34 p.m. Safirecat Says...

We’ve never done the express pass but it sounds like a great deal!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:34 p.m. Tricia Says...

We love to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel easy walk to the park and express passes for the whole family are included.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:33 p.m. Genevieve Says...

I mnow it’s worth the money but… my oh my a day at universal gets expensive!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:33 p.m. Kristin Says...

Express pass seems like a must for families with kids

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:32 p.m. Mark G Says...

Good info

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:32 p.m. LindaaaaD Says...

Never tried the express pass... but would like to have them on our next vacation!!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:31 p.m. JG Hehle Says...

Expensive but worth it?

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:31 p.m. Ashley Dunham Says...

Express passes are a must if not there for many days :)

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:31 p.m. Eric T Says...

We've never needed it when we go.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:31 p.m. Andrea Merrill Says...

This is interesting.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:30 p.m. Adam Says...

Looking forward to skipping lines next time I visit!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:30 p.m. lminster Says...

Why does the express pass have to be so expensive?

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:30 p.m. Alexis B. Says...

We always stay one night at Royal Pacific in order to receive express passes. We always fine that they are well worth it!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:30 p.m. Tyleah M Says...

I bet the express pass would save us sooo much time! Especially cause some of those bigger rides are ones we don’t want to miss.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:29 p.m. Debra Says...

I have to admit the express pass helps.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:29 p.m. Nikki Long Says...

Express is pricey, but can be invaluable when it's super busy!!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:29 p.m. Mable C Says...

Thanks for all the info!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:29 p.m. Christy Elliott Says...

This blog is full of such useful information. Cant wait to plan our next trip!!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:28 p.m. Dainty1 Says...

Thanks for the great info!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:28 p.m. LVELLA Says...

Premier Resort is the way to go. Not sure I could do it any other way now.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:28 p.m. Ann Says...

Will definitely consider it !!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:28 p.m. Tracee Says...

Thx for the info

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:28 p.m. LAGarrett Says...

Thanks!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:27 p.m. Adriana Salinas Says...

The express pass is the only way to enjoy when Universal is packed

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:27 p.m. Aly B Says...

Would love to try it when my kiddo is older

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:27 p.m. Genesis Says...

Very helpful info for first time visitors continue doing great work

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:26 p.m. Cesar Says...

I Love it !!!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:25 p.m. April Says...

They are very expensive but work well

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:24 p.m. ANDREY Says...

we found that it is great to visit early morning and attend some popular rides with little to no lines. and then attend them with express pass.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:23 p.m. BB Says...

Can't wait to skip the line with our express pass!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. amanndaperes Says...

I always try to book a resort that has the express pass because that way everyone has it but if I can’t we still get the express pass at least 1 day because it is 10/10 worth it. The fact we don’t have to book anything in advance and we can just walk up and go is what we love

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Sarah Gardner Says...

Love this information. The express pass is so very helpful. It's hard with kids having to wait in long lines.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Cynde Says...

Express is worth the money!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Milly Voskanyan Says...

All this in one place is great!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Clint koepnick Says...

The express pass is a must when visiting any theme park it allows faster and more convient ways to see all of the attractions.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Susi Says...

Hoppy to hear that you're selling the Express Pass now!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Amy H Says...

Wavering on the cost of these, and if it's going to be worth it, even over super busy times.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:22 p.m. Karlie hoover Says...

This is great info

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:21 p.m. Michelle Says...

Next time we visit, we will stay at a hotel with express pass that comes with the hotel cost.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:21 p.m. Heather Nanney Says...

Express passes come in extremely handy during the very busy season.

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:21 p.m. Andrea Champion Says...

EXPRESS PASS IS WORTH IT!!!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:21 p.m. Ashley Ortiz Says...

Still don't know if I'd ever buy these

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:20 p.m. Bethany Heck Says...

I love that it’s not limited to “booking return times” and how much. Sounds like a great way to experience the parks!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:20 p.m. Sandra H. Says...

This would be a dream come true!

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Dec 4, 2023 at 9:20 p.m. Tracy Says...

Love to have this but it is too expensive on top of ticket price!

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